The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament

Raphael painted this The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament as the first fresco in the Stanza della Segnatura, completed around 1510. It represents theology, facing The School of Athens (philosophy) across the room. The composition shows heaven and earth united around the Eucharist.

The upper half shows the Holy Trinity surrounded by saints and Old Testament figures on golden clouds. Below, Church fathers and theologians debate around an altar bearing the communion host. The semicircular composition draws all eyes to the Eucharist at center. Portraits include Dante in the earthly crowd and Fra Angelico among the heavenly blessed. The fresco remains in the Vatican Museums.